The inaugural IAmBlack Conference, held at the University of Strathclyde Technology and Innovation Centre, was a resounding success, bringing together over 500 Black professionals, students, and business owners with top employers from various industries. Themed “Unleashing the Power of Black Talent and Employer Brands,” the event focused on fostering diversity and inclusion in the Scottish workforce.
Attendees had the opportunity to engage with representatives from 30 leading employer brands, participate in inspiring talks, panel discussions, and masterclasses led by distinguished speakers, and network with like-minded individuals. The conference was hailed as a new standard for professional gatherings in Scotland, where the Black community’s presence and aspirations were recognized and celebrated.
Enoch Adeyemi, founder of the conference, emphasized the theme of symbiosis, highlighting the potential for long-lasting relationships between attendees and businesses. Laura Vaughan, Head of Protection at Lloyds Banking Group, the headline sponsor, expressed pride in being part of the historic event and the alignment of goals for increased diversity and representation within the organization.
Gillian Martin MSP, Fair Work Minister, emphasized the importance of connecting talent with employers to create diverse and inclusive workforces, boosting economic performance and innovation. The Scottish Government’s commitment to developing fair and inclusive workplaces through the Anti-Racist Employment Strategy was also highlighted.
The conference’s design to facilitate cross-networking was a highlight, with attendees forming connections that promise to extend beyond the event. As the conference concludes, the conversations and collaborations it sparked are just beginning, with Black Professionals United Kingdom inviting businesses to join the movement towards a more inclusive and prosperous future. Highlights and key takeaways from the event are available on the conference website and social media pages for those who missed the event.